At Lost in Love, we have all your bases covered, if you are wanting to have a Micro Wedding that is intimate but big on flair while fitting your budget, then our guide to boutique wedding Queenstown venues for less than 30 guests will have you sorted. This guide is best suited to those who have said YES to our Bonanza Package and who are also looking at accommodation and catering onsite.
There are plenty of locations where you can enjoy the unspoilt views of the best that the area has to offer in the way of free outdoor venues,(see blog link here) but if you envisage more of a reception element and the ease of a more catered event, then look no further.
Lower end
Trelawn Place
Location – Central to town
Cost to Hire – lower end, from $500 NZD
Includes Accommodation – Available
Backdrop – Shotover river, mountain tops
Description – Known for its stunning river views and expansive lawns, Trelawn is the perfect spring wedding vibe, with a freshness about it that lends itself to a romantic atmosphere. It is best to plan a morning ceremony here as the venue loses the late afternoon sun earlier than most. Bonus – you can stay here at Trelawan house, have your makeup and hair done in your room and arrive at your ceremony in style with no need for pesky travel time.
Best time of year to use – Autumn to Early Spring
Website: https://www.trelawn.co.nz/
The Canyons Lodge
Location – Central to town
Cost to Hire – $690 NZD
Includes Accommodation – Available
Backdrop – As the Canyon Lodge is located in the same area as Trelawn Place, there are similar stunning views but with a less sheltered large lawn area there is no shortage of light at dusk.
Description – For shorter photography sessions, Canyons Lodge is ideal for shooting both the ceremony and the reception. The Canyons Lodge has a rustic New Zealand farm stay atmosphere with plenty of sheep enjoying the idyllic setting. The Riverview deck which is part of the accommodation area is a fantastic backup location in case of wet weather. If you are holding a reception for over 15 people, then you may need to hire a portable loo, as something to note.
Best time of year to use – Autumn to Early Spring
Website: https://www.thecanyonslodge.com/
Ben Lomond Lavender Farm
Location – 10 minutes from town
Cost to Hire – From $700NZD
Includes Accommodation – NA
Backdrop – Coronet Peak sweeps upwards from behind this location, with a valley spread out in front, and of course those stunning lavender fields that this location is famous for.
Description – This is a new wedding venue but has been a lavender farm for many years. With the gentle hues of lavender fields wafting on the breeze, this venue is ideal for that dreamy, slower-paced feel. Romantic and charming, with a rustic hay barn backdrop which is also perfect as a wet weather backup.
Best time of year to use -This venue is available year-round, but to get those beautiful lavender field shots you will need to book outside of April-mid October as the lavender is not in bloom during those times.
Website: https://www.benlomondlavender.co.nz
Paradise Trust
Location – 1hr from Queenstown (give yourself extra time to soak in the scenery along the way!)
Cost to Hire – From $255NZD
Includes Accommodation – Yes
Backdrop – Stunning New Zealand Native Forests
Description – Paradise Trust offers the Forest Wedding package for a reasonable price in an incredible location, think Middle Earth atmosphere with two options for your ceremony. One is deep in a wild native forest which served as a backdrop to the mystical forests shown in Lord of the Rings. The other is looking out over a valley that spreads out towards majestic mountains with rivers braiding through the grasslands. Both locations have ceremony arches available. This location is unique to the area beyond Queenstown, it truly is like stepping into a new realm! Be aware that there is no cell reception in Paradise so you will need to plan ahead with communications.
There is also a backup wet weather option which is a rustic old school that has been transformed to reflect a touch of luxury.
Best time of year to use – Year-round, but best to avoid the depths of Winter in June/July if you want to be outdoors.
Website – https://www.paradisetrust.co.nz/
Thurlby Domain
Location – 15 minutes from Queenstown
Cost to Hire – From $575NZD
Includes Accommodation– NA
Backdrop – Old stone ruins and a rustic barn
Description – This location is a secret gem among locals and those in the know. There are two options for a wedding ceremony – The Ruins and The Rustic Barn – both are unique wedding ceremony venues and provide a charming and romantic atmosphere. The area is semi-rural which provides a tranquil and relaxed environment. The rustic barn may need extra lighting if you wish to have your ceremony in this space and is also a great wet-weather backup option.
Best time of year to use – Year-round, but especially beautiful in Autumn.
Thomas Brown Gallery
Location – Arrowtown
Cost to Hire – Enquire
Includes Accommodation – NA
Backdrop – The interior of this historic building is a photographer’s dream, so it is perfect as a location to hold a ceremony and achieve those romantic wedding portrait shots.
Description – The Thomas Brown Gallery is an old dairy factory that is now home to an art gallery as well as being available for intimate dinners and wedding ceremonies of up to 25 people. The natural lighting in the building creates a beautiful ambience, with a charming atmosphere. The surroundings are also perfect for wedding portraits being so near to Lake Hayes and historic Arrowtown.
Best time of Year – Winter
Mid-Range
Oasis Yurt Lodge and Outdoor setting
Location – Wanaka (1.5hrs from Queenstown)
Cost to Hire – Different options to suit your experience. Enquire for more details.
Includes Accommodation – Yes, Yurt Style accommodation as well as a Lodge, for up to 24 people.
Backdrop – Snowy mountains in the winter and that iconic alpine backdrop in the summer.
Description – The Oasis is a stunning property set among the mountains of Wanaka and is available for a full day or half day as well as a ceremony-only option. Specialising in intimate weddings and elopements, the Oasis is set up for your dream wedding with minimal fuss. Up to 24 guests can stay at this property, creating your very own wedding retreat.
Best time of year – Year round
Website – https://www.oasiswanaka.co.nz/about/wedding-venue-home/
Little Blackwood
Location – Central Queenstown, lakefront
Cost to Hire – Enquire
Includes Accommodation – NA
Backdrop – Remarkable mountain range and Lake Wakatipu
Description – This little venue sitting on the edge of Lake Wakatipu has beautiful views of the Remarkables and surrounds. With modern decor and a contemporary fit-out, your wedding ceremony will have a classic feel to it and will also include a dance floor. Up to 75 guests can be accommodated at this venue, perfect for a smaller ceremony and a larger reception.
Best time of Year – Year round
Website – https://www.littleblackwood.com/queenstown-wedding-venue/
Kinloch Wilderness Retreat, Glenorchy
Location – Glenorchy, 50mins from Queenstown
Cost to Hire – Enquiry for different options; full wedding packages begin from $9000.
Includes Accommodation – Yes, choose from the Glenorchy Lakehouse or the new Ecoscapes accommodation with impressive views and comfortable surroundings.
Backdrop – Stunning lake scenery at the head of Lake Wakatipu. With a backdrop of native New Zealand forests.
Description – This is quite different to the Queenstown scenery and just as impressive and dramatic. In this area of Lake Wakatipu, the mountain ranges are far closer, so they are stunning as a backdrop against the emerald green of a forest. Kinloch Wilderness Retreat caters for weddings with a romantic ceremony venue complete with a wedding arch sitting on the lakeshore. The buildings are historic and rustic in vibe but accommodations have been recently renovated and reflect that touch of luxury you will enjoy on your wedding night. They even have a spa that you can stargaze from in the evenings, after enjoying a sumptuous feast. Catering from 12 people upwards with a great reputation for hosting intimate weddings and elopements.
Best time of Year – Year round
Website – https://kinlochlodge.co.nz/groups/weddings/
Queenstown Country Lodge
Location – Ladies Mile, 10 minutes from Queenstown
Cost to Hire – Enquire for ceremony alone or ceremony and accommodation.
Includes Accommodation – Luxury accommodation for up to 12 guests
Backdrop – Stunning luxury country setting.
Description – With fantastic luxury accommodations and a beautiful outdoor setting, you can choose to turn your wedding into a retreat for close friends and family. Enjoy your stay leading up to your wedding day and then relax into your ceremony held on the sweeping lawns, with such an idyllic atmosphere you will begin your married life in style and comfort.
Best time of Year – Year round
Website – https://www.queenstowncountrylodge.co.nz/weddings-events/
Cargo Brewery
Location – 25 minutes from Queenstown, 10 minutes from Arrowtown
Cost to Hire – Enquire for different packages according to your needs; non-exclusive hire beings at $1,150.00 during the off-peak season and $3450.00 for the exclusive hire of the venue in the off-peak season.
Includes Accommodation – No
Backdrop – Mountain range and vineyard setting in the Gibbston Valley
Description – With an old church setting and plenty of wide open space for guests to enjoy a couple of lawn games, your wedding will enjoy a charming atmosphere and vineyard setting with some of the best boutique wines the region has to offer. This venue is unique and private – allowing you to truly soak in the surroundings on your special day without any stress. Incredible food and drink are available inspired by the local regional delicacies on offer.
Best time of Year – Year-round, especially beautiful with the changing colours being so vivid in this area in Autumn.
Website – https://www.cargobrewery.co.nz/function-spaces/weddings/
Stoneridge Estate
Location – 20 minutes from Queenstown, 5 minutes from Arrowtown
Cost to Hire – Enquire for various packages.
Includes Accommodation – Beautifully appointed luxury accommodation is available.
Backdrop – Set amongst 12 acres of beautiful romantic gardens, a boutique vineyard with views towards the mountains and the reflective Lake Hayes.
Description – The old stone church is perfect as a ceremony venue and is steeped in romance. Having had the pleasure of holding many weddings and enjoying a fantastic reputation, you are in professional hands when it comes to your ceremony running smoothly. A unique wedding reception venue is on site with a huge open fireplace and rustic atmosphere. This is ideal for a small intimate wedding.
Best time of Year – Year round
Website – https://stoneridge.co.nz/
Jack’s Retreat
Location – Jacks Point 25 minutes from Central Queenstown
Cost to Hire – From $3500 for a 2 night stay and under 10 person elopement
Includes Accommodation – Yes, sanctuary-type accommodation with comfortable luxury interiors.
Backdrop – Jack’s Point is a large area of farmland with small alpine lakes, an elegant clubhouse and the majestic Remarkable mountain range.
Description – Jack’s Retreat is situated in Jacks Point, a stunning area just outside of Frankton, at the base of the Remarkable mountain range. With the fine dining clubhouse and renowned 18-hole golf course onsite, you will be spoilt for choices when enjoying your ceremony and reception.
Best time of Year – Year round
Website – https://jacksretreat.co.nz/
Sherwood
Location – 10 minutes from Queenstown, on Frankton Road
Cost to Hire – Enquire for multiple wedding package options.
Includes Accommodation – Yes. Drawing inspiration from the natural surroundings, with eco inspired decor and simple designs, accommodation at Sherwood is a unique experience blending comfort and style with affordability.
Backdrop – The Sherwood is set on Goldfield Heights, only 10 minutes from Queenstown, overlooking Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkable ranges. A central location with a beautiful backdrop, perfect for that alpine wedding vibe.
Description – The Sherwood is a unique venue offering the best in sustainable hospitality, with organic gardens which are the inspiration for the carefully selected seasonal menu that the restaurant crafts, along with a fantastic bar, that serves up delicious cocktails. Sherwood can cater for 20 people and up, and have a beautiful space with the option for your own custom menu. A private courtyard with a bar is a great option for your wedding ceremony and/or reception. Sherwood also offers up well-being services from their yoga studio, such as massage, yoga classes, and other wellness experiences to complement your Sherwood stay.
Best time of Year – Year-round.
Website – https://sherwoodqueenstown.nz/
Luxe
The Winehouse
Location – 25 minutes from Queenstown in vineyard valley.
Cost to Hire – Enquire for different options for your wedding experience.
Includes Accommodation – NA
Backdrop – Situated among the vineyards of Gibbston Valley with many possibilities as to how to dress up your wedding ceremony and reception. The Winehouse Garden is surrounded by beautiful trees with a bar and whiskey room in which to enjoy decadent canapes and cocktails. The Winehouse itself is a stunning historic homestead with french doors which open to a pavilion. There are multiple options for stunning scenery to enjoy.
Description – The Winehouse has its own orchard, gardens and a path lined with trees – you are truly spoilt for choices in which to hold your ceremony and enjoy your wedding portraits. For your reception, you can enjoy the whiskey room and in-house canapes. The extra special Marque has many possibilities to dress up and you even have the option of removing the roof for your own romantic starlit evening. The in-house catering and all round wedding planning options make your wedding experience at The Winehouse seamless and unforgettable.
Best time of Year – Especially beautiful in the Autumn months.
Website – https://www.winehouse.co.nz/
Matakauri Lodge
Location – 10 minutes from Queenstown, towards Glenorchy.
Cost to Hire – Enquire for different options.
Includes Accommodation – Deluxe suites and a Lodge room as well as a luxury cottage caters for up to a maximum of 32 guests.
Backdrop – Mountain vistas and lakefront views.
Description – Matakauri Lodge is a luxury lodge set against a backdrop of mountains along the road towards the head of the Lake. Catering for your wedding party is made effortless with the many different fine-dining and catering options onsite. With everything you need to experience your dream wedding, Matakauri Lodge is the perfect option for your alpine wedding day.
Best time of Year – Year round
Website – https://www.robertsonlodges.com/the-lodges/matakauri/occasions/weddings
Blanket Bay
Location – Glenorchy, 45 minutes from Queenstown
Cost to Hire – Enquire at the link below about your wedding ceremony and reception options.
Includes Accommodation – Yes, high-end luxe accommodation.
Backdrop – Situated on the lakefront of Lake Wakatipu with breathtaking views, part of a working farm and estate which is framed with snow-capped mountains.
Description – Blanket Bay is a 5-star resort Lodge which is a part of Wyuna Station at the head of Lake Wakatipu, near the picture-perfect village of Glenorchy. Built with stunning Otago schist rock by master stone masons, with natural timber and rooms that are filled with light. There are plenty of stunning outdoor locations on site to hold a romantic ceremony as well as a helipad if you are wanting to be whisked away to the mountain tops. The award-winning restaurant will also impress you with a 5-course ever-changing degustation menu. If you are looking for a luxury wedding venue that is in a more remote location to Queenstown, then look no further than Blanket Bay.
Best time of year – Year round
Website – https://blanketbay.com/
Eichardt’s Private Hotel
Location – Central Queenstown
Cost to Hire – Enquire at the link below about your choice of reception and/or wedding ceremony options.
Includes Accommodation – Yes, there are 7 luxury suites to choose from, overlooking Lake Wakatipu as well as 4 beautifully appointed cottages and a three-bedroom villa.
The Penthouse is also available and is one of Queenstown’s premier accommodation options.
Backdrop – Lake Wakatipu and mountain vistas.
Description – Eichardt’s Private Hotel has many options from holding a wedding ceremony in The Penthouse, the ultimate luxury and stylish ceremony venue to fine dining receptions held in the restaurant with unparalleled menus on offer. The Penthouse terrace can hold up to 40 guests inside or outside. The Parlour is an elegant venue inside the hotel in the heritage wing, with views over Lake Wakatipu. An open fireplace makes this a romantic option for your ceremony with an inviting and cosy atmosphere.
Best time of Year – Year-round, especially good for a winter ceremony if you are looking for a central Queenstown location that is indoors with an outdoor option.
Website – https://eichardts.com/occasions/weddings
Millbrook
Location – 20 minutes from Queenstown, 5 minutes from Arrowtown
Cost to Hire – $4,500 for an elopement package for just the two of you, wedding packages for guest inclusion and intimate weddings are also available. You can experience a luxury wedding at one of Queenstown’s premier resorts without having to spend huge amounts. You can hold your entire wedding at Millbrook or just a portion of it.
Includes Accommodation – Yes, choose from a variety of accommodations, all beautifully appointed and nestled into Millbrooks impressive grounds. A world-class golf course is on offer as well as two on-site restaurants and a wellness centre with a spa and pool.
Backdrop – Millbrook sits just below Coronet Peak and is close to historic Arrowtown with its picture-perfect backdrop of changing colours during Autumn and snowy mountain scenes in Winter. Spring is just as charming as the blue skies of Summer. Views over Lake Hayes also create stunning reflections to add to the picturesque experience.
Description – Year-round, Millbrook is the perfect romantic venue for your wedding ceremony and reception with years of experience in hosting weddings, you will be in expert hands. There are multiple options on the grounds in which to hold your ceremony, from sweeping lawns to bubbling brooks and intimate interior areas, with a restaurant in which to enjoy a reception or fine-dining experience for two. Millbrook has a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere that will have you find the whole process relaxed from start to finish. You also have an option of a helicopter trip to a mountain top with a helipad on the grounds.
Best time of Year – Year round
Website – https://millbrook.co.nz/occasions/weddings/
Amisfield Winery
Location – 20 minutes from Queenstown, alongside Lake Hayes.
Cost to Hire – Enquire to discuss your wedding needs
Includes Accommodation – NA
Backdrop – Vineyards, mountains and Lake Hayes – what more could you want…Lake Hayes is only 5 minutes from here if you wish to take your portrait spots closer to the beautiful reflections and peaceful atmosphere of this mountain lake.
Description – A romantic vineyard venue where your ceremony can take place outdoors, before moving into the courtyard with your guests. There is also an indoor setting which is private where you can enjoy Amisfield’s famous wines. The buildings are beautiful with schist stone walls and natural timbers, which make for great portrait shots. The menu at Amisfield is well worth booking for alone, if you and your to-be are foodies and enjoy a good drop then this venue will not disappoint.
Best time of Year – Every season is beautiful at this well-known and loved winery, but due to the outdoor setting, Summer and Spring are the most suitable times of year for this venue.
Website – https://amisfield.co.nz/
Unique
Kamana Lakehouse
Location – Central to Queenstown.
Cost to Hire – Browse the Kamana Lake House wedding brochure by visiting the website.
Includes Accommodation – Yes, choose from a range of high-end accommodation options at the Kamana Lakehouse.
Backdrop – Elevated views across Lake Wakatipu and towards the mountain range hugging the Lakeline.
Description – Hosting weddings is this venue’s speciality, with multiple wedding packages available. There is a selection of stunning vistas where you can say ‘I do,’ overlooking Lake Wakatipu and over towards Cecil Peak. This venue can host larger weddings and Kamana Lake House offers a range of spaces where you can hold your ceremony and reception. For smaller weddings, the locations “Tiro,’ ‘Cocoon,’ and the ‘Sunrise Terrace,’ are all perfect for an intimate setting, with breathtaking views. These venues are mostly indoor/outdoor and you can also have the option of a ceremony on ‘The Great Lawn,’ which is best in the warmer months and can cater for a larger number of guests. No matter your choice, you will be treated to exceptional service and all your food and drink needs are onsite with seasonal menus available.
Best time of Year – Year-round.
Website – https://kamana.co.nz/weddings-meetings-and-events/weddings/
Wiki Wiki
Location – Bobs Cove, 15 minutes from downtown Queenstown.
Cost to Hire – Enquire for small wedding package options, from simple ceremony-only options to packages inclusive of accommodation and more.
Includes Accommodation – Yes, for up to 12 people. The team at Wiki Wiki can also help arrange accommodation for larger groups nearby to the venue.
Backdrop – Bob’s Cove offers peaceful serenity away from the hustle and bustle of central Queenstown. With uninterrupted views of the mountains and Lake Wakatipu, there is also plenty of beautiful native bush to enjoy.
Description – Wiki Wiki is described as “the coolest small wedding venue in Queenstown,” as a small wedding purpose-built venue that offers accommodation for up to 12 people. Whatever you are desiring for your wedding day, Wiki Wiki can make it possible. There is a cute caravan bar for hire, and local band The Walnuts, an acoustic guitar duo, are also available for your dream wedding ceremony and reception. This venue is funky, unique and relaxed, perfect for a low-key intimate wedding.
Best time of Year – Year-round, but in the warmer months this venue truly shines.
Website – https://www.wikkiwikki.co.nz/
NZ High Country
Location – 15 minutes from Queenstown
Cost to Hire – Enquire for wedding package details.
Includes Accommodation – NA
Backdrop – Expansive farmland with a backdrop of iconic southern alps and Lake Johnson.
Description – Tucked away in the farmland behind Frankton is an incredible wedding venue that is also conveniently close to Queenstown and Frankton airport. At NZ High Country you can choose to hold your ceremony only or you can also plan for your reception. For smaller wedding parties, the Summer Views package is ideal. There is also a choice of epic ceremony spots complete with a wedding arch and expansive lawn space so you can extend your celebration. The Summer views package comes with an incredible marquee with glass panelling and timber floors so you and your guests can enjoy unspoilt views across Lake Johnson and towards Coronet Peak. This package suits those whose wedding party is under 100.
Best time of Year – Year-round.
Website – https://www.nzhighcountry.co.nz/
Touch of Spice Properties
Location – Throughout the Queenstown area.
Cost to Hire – Enquire for venue charges, and added options of experiences crafted around your wedding day.
Includes Accommodation – Yes. These are luxury accommodations that also serve as an intimate wedding ceremony and reception venue.
Backdrop – Different locations reflect the diverse beauty of the Queenstown region.
Description – Touch of Spice is a premier luxury travel, accommodation and experiences service, catering to those who are looking for exceptional services and want expertly crafted experiences. Having provided this service since 2005, Touch of Spice have formed strong connections with other providers of extraordinary experiences and is proud to craft your unique wedding day. Head to their website to discover more about Touch of Spice and their many different accommodation options, which are exclusively available when booking with Touch of Spice.
Best time of Year – Year-round.
Website – https://www.touchofspice.co.nz/
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